Clarissa: Other than great training, students need to have a 360-degree look into the dance industry because there is only ONE dance.There is not a “good” type of dance a “bad” type of dance. Having said that, I do want to stress the importance of Ballet. It is fundamental and the first part of all auditions is a ballet class, from Teatro alla Scala to Pina Bausch.

WDM: What advice would you give to a dancer who was told “you don’t have the right body to be a classical balletdancer”?

Clarissa: Dance needs talent, dynamics, musicality, good technique, but also needs an harmonic and proportionate body. Unfortunately, after teenage years, dancers watch their bodies change. Sometimes this can limit a dancer’s career on stage in the classical ballet world, but dance will still have formed the dancer both physically and mentally providing them with the opportunity to be a brilliant teacher (if they study to become one). Not all great dancers can become great teachers. My university, where I have been teaching for over 36 years, has courses for both teachers and choreographers.

WDM: Do you remember your first dance teacher?

Clarissa: My first teacher was Lia Calizza, a woman who gave me so much, both technically and on a personal level. She was sweet and understanding, but also very demanding. I still thank her for what she gave me.

WDM: How do you motivate and stimulate your students?

Clarissa: I love my students, they motivate me with their work and dedication. I always remind them that when working you always need to have the humility to learn and the honesty to recognize your capabilities. I love honest work and students who work hard every day to become better than the previous day. I love Artists, those with a dancing soul, those who can move you with a Port de Bras. A Port de Bras never lies.

You can check out Clarissa’s full biohere. To register for World Dance Movement – The International Festival, please visitwww.WDMItaly.com.